Oakton Outlook 2010-2011 Issue 8

Outlook Oakton

Volume Volume45; 45;Issue Issue7;8;April May29, 25,2011 2011

XXX Let’s Talk About Sex

Investigating adolescence’s redletter questions feature

Some students are already approaching the altar.

news

opinions

sports

Juniors and seniors get decked out for Prom on the red carpet.

Should the boy always be responsible for Prom expenses?

Spring sports’ Districts wrap-up: crew, track, tennis.

better scores. better choices.

PrepMatters.

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APPLICATIONS

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So you’ve rocked your SAT? Now it’s time to roll through Subject Tests and APs. "Once more, dear friends..."

You've taken the SAT once, maybe twice. You've got a great set of scores.

You're beginning to page through those thick

by Ned Johnson, college books and Founder and President get excited. What of PrepMatters, Inc now? The good news is that the two most important factors in college admissions are grades and SAT or ACT scores. Done.

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All about Subject Tests SAT Subject Tests are a great opportunity to show that you're ready for the rigors of college course work.

Not all Subject Tests, however, are for everyone. If you've got a college list together, check with individual schools for their requirements: some don't require any, some require one or two, and very few require three.

You should take only those tests for which you are the most prepared. Just because your math teacher has covered all of the topics on the Math Level 2 test doesn't mean it's for you.

The idea is to reinforce strong SAT

scores - not undermine them. June is the perfect time to take a history or science exam - especially if you've just taken the AP course. If you need to put off a test until the fall, consider making that one Literature or maybe Math. In all cases, take some practice tests to see where you stand. If you feel that you will need many weeks worth of preparation to get ready - you're likely taking the wrong test.

you do well in those courses matters; again, grades come first. In contrast, the scores you get on your APs are secondary.

So why do we do it?

A solid AP score can strengthen your college application. Once you are in college, AP scores will matter if you hope to opt out of a 101 course and tackle the harder stuff early on, if you want to graduate early, or you plan to double or triple major. However, if learn more tips you study like a Visit prepmatters.com to maniac to get a register for upcoming top score on the seminars - including College AP and, as a consequence, Visits 101 and APs & Subject bomb a test, quiz Tests or paper in that or another class, you take a test have made a bad To schedule a free diagnostic trade-off.

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table of contents

page 3, May 25, 2011

news Prom 2011: Red Carpet

Red carpet mania arrived at Oakton for prom, the annual student dance that was held on May 20. Couples dressed exquisitely for a night of dinner, dancing and partying, reminiscient of a Hollywood awards show.

8

feature Oakton’s Inked

Intricate patterns and personalized images have sparked the interests of numeruos students wanting to display meaningful tattoos on their bodies.

9

opinions When teenagers do IT Is the pill a valid lifestyle choice for teenagers who are sexually active or does it require a more mature mindset? The Outlook staff offers it’s opinion.

14

indepth Teenage Dream?

Issues ranging from sexting to differing views on abstinence affect numerous high school students. cover artwork by kirin gupta

16

sports Crew team enjoy a successful season Oakton Crew continued their intensive and successful season, competing in State and travelling to Canada to compete in the annual Stotesbury regatta.

22

A&E Summer festivals The summer festival season has officially kicked off, heralding popular local attractions such as Celebrate Fairfax and Viva Vienna.

23

A&E Amy Winehouse VS. Adele Amy Winehouse and Adele are two popular artists from England that have recieved international accolades, but who is truly the better musician?

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letter from the editors the buzz in the newsroom...

the new kids in town

A

s new editors in chief, we’ve got a lot to learn. For one, we need to know how to properly nag people in an intimidating and impressive way. This task makes us incredibly popular, as you can imagine.

Fortunately, people still managed to get their work done for this issue, and it turned out pretty magnificent, if we do say so ourselves.

Lucky for us, the first issue we’re in charge of is about possibly the most awkward topic we could think of: sex (page 16). The obvious reactions are laughter, a few giggles and the occasional snort. This is expected, of course, but we’re hoping that at least some of our articles will be taken seriously.

Teen pregnancy, abortions, porn: they all happen in our student body.

Maybe it’s awkward, and of course we laugh, but at least we’re discussing it.

Better to say it and laugh than say nothing at all.

Now that we’ve covered the incredibly deep and serious portion of this issue, we can move on to a lighter topic: Prom (page 8). There’s not much to be said for Prom, so we didn’t really say much. But there sure are a lot of pretty pictures to feast your eyes upon.

What’s even more exciting than prom? Nothing! But SGA elections sure come close (page 7). We all enjoyed seeing the cheerful yet horrible puns that adorned those bright election posters. So here is a hardy congratulations to all the winners of this year’s elections. May you make it through the year to start the punny cycle of elections again next year.

Summer is within our grasp, and everyone is starting to worry about beach bodies (page 25). Well, not everyone, because we aren’t worried; we’ll be planning next year’s Outlook, gleaming pasty white from our lack of exposure to the sun. If you don’t feel like training rigorously for the beach, sit back and watch a few beginning-of-summer movies. Reviews are available to guide you in the very important business of choosing which movie to see (page 30).

We love the newspaper. We chose this class because it’s always progressing; we’re never just working on the same thing over and over. Every month, we get a new chance to either succeed or fail miserably. Preferably not the latter, but it could happen. This year’s newspaper has been a success, and we hope to continue the legacy next year. After our many flounderings in this issue, we know we should feel more comfortable in these new positions, but the truth is, we’re still figuring it all out. Not to worry, we’ll be ready for next year. Hopefully.

Yours,

Gabriela Driscoll Shannon Ragan michelle oh

page 4, may 25, 2011

Outlook Staff Editors in Chief Kirin Gupta Zoë Mitchell Vipin Reddy Adviser Lauren Luna News Editor Sports Editors Chris Papas Allie Berube Feature Editor Alex Buscemi Michelle Chu A&E Editors In-Depth Lisa Baumgartner Editors Cole Neuffer Allen Luethke Becky Singerman Copy Editors Opinions Editors Shannon Ragan Nikki Clemons Sarah Crain (Ast.) Dorothy Yen Business Manager Online Editor Sarah Crain Koorosh Massoudi Photo Editor Daniel Chait Staff Melanie Aguilar Jackson Lizardo Alex Belden Oliver Lopez-Gomez Erin Bennett Michelle LoRusso Tim Collins Emma Mankin Spencer Conley Camille May James Craig Madlin Mekelburg Sofia Crutchfield Cassandra Noda Conner Dick Michelle Oh Gabriela Driscoll Emma Pfeifer Lauren Embroski Chloe Pierce Christian Forbes Sonya Price Roxy Ghamgosarnia Andy Reed Kim Gibbons Shayda Shahbazi Morgan Harwood Rachita Singh Caroline Hipwell Anita Tadakamalla Sarah Hong Penelope Tangamu Nicole Jakstas Marilyn Yang Callum Kelton Alexa Williams Isabella Kidane Kate Zhukova Christina Lee

Editorial Policy The Outlook is an open forum for student expression. Unsigned editorials reflect the collective opinion of the Outlook staff. Signed editorials represent the opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Outlook or Oakton High School.

Reader opinions are important to the Outlook and contributions are welcome. Make your voice heard by sending us a line about what’s on your mind. Letters to the editor may be may be sent via email to kirin.gupta@oaktonmedia. net or dropped off in Mrs. Luna’s box in the main office or in room 196. The Outlook reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and content provided the meaning remains unchanged.

Corrections Last issue’s page 19 in the InDepth section contained an inverted graph which should have read as follows: 84% of respondents said they had never passed out while drunk, not 16%. We apologize for this mistake.

news in brief

Buddies 1. Best participate in

friendship walk

Members of Best Buddies went on a three-mile walk to raise money for Best Buddies Virginia on May 14.

The walk helped support Best Buddies programs in schools. The money will be used to maintain chapters in middle schools, high schools and colleges in Virginia.

“This fundraiser is Best Buddies Virginia’s biggest fundraiser and it keeps Oakton’s chapter running,” said president Caroline McGrath, senior. “It is important to me and everyone involved to participate in the walk.”

Members participated in the fourth annual ‘Friendship Walk’ in Nottoway Park.

“Since I’ve seen it through the whole process of fundraising and seeing people donating, I was really excited to see the actual walk,” McGrath said.

The walk was the last fundraiser for Best Buddies this school year. The fundraiser raised more than $48,000.

page 5, may 25, 2011

compete in 2. DECA International Career and

Development Conference

Oakton DECA flew to Orlando, Florida to participate in the annual International Career and Development Conference (ICDC) from April 30 to May 3. DECA, an association of marketing students, participates in local, state and national competitions.

The ICDC is a group of conferences held once a year for high school and college DECA members to enhance their leadership, business and competition skills. These conferences include career workshops and one-on-one time with advisors so students can explore opportunities for advancement and options for their future. Students connect with corporate professionals to get engaged in learning industry-related trends and content. Oakton competed and won at the Fairfax level and was invited to the States in Norfolk where they placed highly.

ICDC is one of the largest gatherings that any group of Oakton students are invited to attend each year. Many other conferences across the United States occur, but they are more selective and career focused in comparison to ICDC.

Robotics club ranks internationally in 3. competition Oakton Robotics involves students from all grade levels designing and programming robots. The robots perform simple tasks such as shooting balls into baskets and placing batons on the floor.

After the state competition in January, which Oakton placed first in, the team began to work on their next robot in preparation for the world competition.

“First we brainstormed and

came up with ideas to design the software program instead of working on the mechanical terms,” said captain Katherine Fu, junior. “The whole robot took about four months.”

On April 28, the team put its robot to the test at the first championship held in St. Louis, Missouri. This year Oakton came in seventh. “We ranked almost last in qualifying, first at State and now at World,” Fu said.

courtesy of oakton activities office

hold a charity run to raise 4. Students money to build wells in Africa Small villages in rural Africa are in need of water wells so that they are not forced to walk up to four miles a day to a river. AFRICARE is a non-profit organization that is devoted to providing wells for African communities. On May 15 at Fairfax Corner, students supported the foundation by taking part in a walk/run to raise money for the cause.

“The walk is to raise money that goes directly towards funding wells in Africa. Every seven thousand dollars funds one well,” said Stephen Axelson, junior.

AFRICARE works with schools and churches to set up fundraisers and send groups to the villages they help, so that the positive effects of the water wells can be observed by contributors.

“When [our church group] went to Africa, we met the ambassador and then drove eight hours to rural areas where we set up wells and later met the village people,” Axelson said.

“Seeing all of our work on

the wells in the village felt really empowering.”

The organization researches which areas of Africa look the most promising for the future to decide where the wells should be placed. Last year, Ghana was chosen as the site for new wells.

“Helping with AFRICARE has raised my awareness of how people in other parts of the world live, and it has inspired me to make a difference for people who are less fortunate than us,” said Nathan Ong, junior.

The proceeds from the walk go to the AFRICARE foundation which aids developing villages in Africa.

Donations to the cause can be made at the event or online at www.walkforwater2011.org.

“It’s great to see all the people who come out for the run,” Axelson said.

“Last year we had around 500 people participate, and we hoped to see a similar turnout this year.”

For more on these stories and others, go to www.oaktonoutlook.com

this month in your words “ “

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Donate blood! You get out of class! Any class you want! ... Oh, also you can save a life. truancy-enthused Red Cross Club members

This guy walked into the YogenFrÜz shop where I work, and we got to talking. He was really attractive, and we were just talking about the weather, whatever... He goes ‘It’s really warm out

there’ and I was like ‘Yeah, you’re really hot.’

It was so embarassing. Definitely something I could write about for my psych project on Freudian slips... monica ten-kate, eloquent and composed junior

page 6 outlook news may 25, 2011

I’m deathly afraid of people putting their fingers in

my bellybutton. amanda wright, omphalophobic senior

Whenever I get a haircut, I shave one side of my head. Just that side. Is that interesting? alex rodriguez, trichophilic senior So after playing paintball, all of us are sitting

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morgan harwood

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I went to New Orleans and got beads... but it wasn’t in the way that you’re thinking! And then I ate an alligator... sophia sellars, oft-quoted about her exciting exploits

around rubbing Icy Hot on our legs. And then - you go to scratch yourself... and then -- ouch -Shouldn’t have moved my hand there... teddy shannahan, senior on fire

E

2011 SGA elections

lections for SGA positions such as SGA president, SGA vice president, class presidents and vice president, executive council and class representatives commenced on May 13. You saw the posters, you’ve heard their campaigns, and you lined up to vote; here are your elected officials for 2011-2012.

sam buck

ankit gulati

won with 51 percent of the votes

won with 73 percent of the votes

SGA president “Thanks to everyone for electing me. I am really looking forward to my position next year as I plan on bringing an energetic focus to the job.”

jeff gehring 2013 president

won with 50 percent of the votes

“I know that the whole point

as president is to serve the people, so whoever comes up with something, I will try to help out.”

vice presidents andie pomponio - SGA alex revel - 2012 brooke townshend - 2013 katherine dunwoody - 2014

other questions asked

homecoming theme: City Lights 3rd dance format: Sadie Hawkins number of spirit shirts: any number, if cool

2012 president

“I will be able to provide an accurate and responsible representation of our class with faculty and staff.

Thanks for your support.”

ellis heijst

2014 president won with 66 percent of the votes

“It was fun to make posters and talk to my voters. I’m not sure what I’m able to do because it is my first time in an elected position, but I am very excited.”

Executive Council

SGA: Shannon Hardtke, Emily Corridon, Monica Matheieu 2012: Emily Corridon, Kelsey Clark, Monica Ten-Kate 2013: Dylan Hunzeker, Annalise Capalbo, Joey Bartosic 2014: Carly Stonehouse, Alison Eagen, Baily Uitz

SAC representatives

Sam Buck, Michael Fama, Emily Corridon, Joey Bartosic page 7 outlook news may 25, 2011

A Red Carpet Extravaganza: Oakton attends Prom

A night of well-dressed couples, expensive dresses and dancing took place on May 20 at Oakton Prom. This year, the dance was held at the Reston Sheraton hotel and students walked down the red carpet into the Hollywood themed dance.

Sean Navin, senior, and Lizzy Preising, Sara Iacovino and Timmy Fitzpatrick, sophmore, walk hand in hand down the seniors, walk into Prom. “My favorite part hall. “I really liked spending time with about prom was getting dressed up and Bradley Mason and Sarah Smith, juthe new people [I met],” Preising said. doing my hair,” Iacovino said. niors, laugh as they stroll down the red carpet. “I loved seeing everyone all dressed up and enjoying themselves,” Smith said.

Zak Goldberger and Caitlin Weirick, seniors, enter the Sheraton with their tickets. “My favorite part, though, had to be the afterparty,” Goldberger said.

Ansley Sherwin and Nick Commarato, seniors, enter the hotel. “The dance was decorated really nicely. I loved the red carpet idea. It was an amazing night,” Sherwin said.

Alfonso Yamakawa and Emily Cockrill, seniors, walk down the red carpet together. “It was really fun; the hotel was really nice. We didn’t really love the DJ but everything else was fun. I’m definitely glad I went because it was my last for Oakton, and it was really special,” Cockrill said. page 8 outlook news may 25, 2011

Jesse Cole and Erika Kaufhold, seniors, adjust their Prom court sashes. “I wore the orange tux because freshman year my brother and I were called Lloyd and Harry, from ‘Dumb and Dumber.’

So we said we would wear the tuxedos sometime around our senior year and we did,” Cole said.

oliver lopez-gomez staff writer

feature

page 9, may 25, 2011

Students get inked

shannon ragan

copy editor

Several Oakton students make the permanent decision to get tattooed.

Q&A

Nesli Ozcan, 11

Why did you get your tattoo?

Nesli: I was 15, and I was having a hard year. I also had a back injury. It’s kind of a symbol of my recovery.

Ilayda: I went with my friend; she’s the one who was going to get one, then I just decided to get one too.

Q&A

Why does your tatoo mean?

Nesli: It’s like carpe diem, but I didn’t want to be cliché. I thought it was beautiful. It’s kind of like a new start, and to show life is beautiful.

Ilayda: They’re zodiac signs. Taurus is mine; Pisces is my dad, my boyfriend and my best friend.

Ilayda Kocak, 12 Q&A What did your parents think?

Nesli: My mom really liked the idea about the symbol, and she knew it had meaning behind it.

Ilayda: When I called my mom to get permission, she just hung up. I called her five times and she wouldn’t answer.

My friend talked to her for like five seconds and then she said yes.

Q&A Do you feel like you’ll ever regret it?

Nesli: Not at all. It’s in a convenient spot, and it’s meaningful.

Ilayda: I don’t think so. It’s important to me, but I wouldn’t like die for it.

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Pro-Football player speaks to Fellowship of Christian Athletes Washington Redskins player spoke to Oakton’s Christian athletes about his faith

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The event also featured a dinner and a fundraiser in hopes of raising money for the crisis in Japan. Donations were accepted at the door upon entrance.

“It was a good fundraiser for the club,” said AJ Dustin, senior.

“We wanted to help next year’s group to be more active in Vienna and in the school. We also wanted people to see that FCA is not just a small club, but a big organization.”

The event also took place in order to influence and attract new members to this year’s and next year’s group.

“We hoped FCA would attract the football players,” Dustin said. “The football team already has their own Christian group so we don’t have too many football players. We hoped with this event we could bring some in. We chose Charles Mann because he could attract the football athletes.”

Because I was really popular I had the ability to do anything I wanted, but because of my faith I knew what was right from wrong. charles mann

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C

harles Mann, three time superbowl champion and Washington Redskin, came to speak to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) on May 13.

“I love hearing famous peoples’ stories,” said Nicole Abdullah, junior. “Most famous people, if they are Christian, are not open to talking about their faith. I liked that he chose to come to speak to us about his faith.”

During the event, Mann talked about his childhood and how he was raised under strict guidelines by his parents. Later, when he was in college, he began to rebel. When he was recruited by the Washington Redskins, he met some Christian players who talked with him and helped make his decision to become a Christian.

“His stories were meaningful,” Abdullah said. “He stated, ‘because I was really popular I had the ability to do anything I wanted, because of my faith I knew what was right from wrong.’”

alex belden staff writer

Joe Flynn prepares for two acting intensive programs this summer is UCLA right now, given that I keep up my grades; I am also looking at Chapman University, Catholic University or New York University,” Flynn said.

These programs will supply Flynn with new performing skills and knowledge, different from the theatre program at Oakton, where there is a stronger focus on stage performance.

“The program in California revolves around acting rather than singing. Acting is more than it seems; it’s about reacting,” Flynn said. “By listening, you’re acting in your movements and face; it’s more than just memorizing lines.”

Flynn recently performed in Oakton’s production of “Oklahoma!”

“I really enjoyed being in the show mainly because of how close the cast became,” Flynn said. “But I would have liked to have a bigger part.”

Keep your eyes glued to Joseph Flynn; he may just be the next big star.

JOE FLYNN

roxy ghamgosarnia

T

his summer, Joseph Flynn, junior, will be traveling to the west coast yet again to engage in a summer acting intensive program at the University of California, Los Angeles. He will then return to study at another intensive acting program at Georgetown University.

Flynn is an active member of Oakton’s Theatre Department and has ambitions of becoming a screen actor.

Flynn underwent both brutal audition processes in December and only recently heard of his acceptance.

“There were over one thousand people who auditioned, and at UCLA they only accepted fifty of them,” said Flynn.

These programs revolve around prepping students for their college auditions. Both programs act as college courses and grant participants two college credits. At the end of the summer, Flynn will have four.

“I really want to go to a California University, and I would be working to get my BFA in acting for camera. My top choice page 10 outlook feature may 25, 2011

Joseph Flynn presents a monolouge in theatre class to practice for his upcoming audition for university.

roxy ghamgosarnia staff writer

If you like it, then you better put a ring on it

P

Senior Iqbal Saeed, recently engaged to long time boyfriend Joshua Cooper, prepares for marital bliss this winter.

opular opinion around the nation heavily dictates that decision to get married have little effect on her life. teenage marriages are ordained to fail from the start.

“I haven’t really had anyone I know oppose this marriage,” In accordance with this belief, the Huffington Post Saeed said. “Just people I don’t know, so I laugh it off. I know released a statement in late 2009 that 72 percent of teenage mar- that we’ll be together forever, and our families know that too. riages end in divorce within the first 25 years of marriage. For Both of our parents are very supportive of this marriage. To the newly engaged senior Iqbal Saeed, these statistics mean little to people who judge me for this, I just have to say that it’s my life. I her in her decision to get married. don’t judge you, so please don’t judge me. If I see happy people, “I love my fiancé, [Joshua Cooper], and that’s all that matters to I let them be happy because it’s none of my business to interfere me,” Saeed said. “I know we’re young, but I can’t wait to be with with them, and I’d like people to give me the same respect that him for the rest of I’ve given them. I knew my life. We always talk people would judge me about how much we and so I only told a few love each other and we close friends of mine share the same values, about this, but somehow morals, future plans the whole school knows and goals. We were now. I don’t mind that always planning on everyone knows, but I just getting married, I just didn’t realize it was going to be this soon. want to say that you have to set aside your own values, opinions We’re in love. Why wait? When love knocks on the door you just and morals before judging someone, because everyone is differhave to answer.” ent and in different situations.”

While young girls eager to get married are often labeled as the Support from parents are mutual from both Saeed’s and dreamy, unpractical and romantic types, Saeed gives off an aura Cooper’s families. In fact, both sets of parents of maturity and level-headedness. knew of Cooper’s plans for proposal before “I never thought I’d be the girl getting married right Saeed found out herself. out of high school,” Saeed said. “I was always the “In my culture and religion, the concept of marriage one saying that I would never get married young. I is a little different than it is in the U.S.,” Saeed said. was determined to focus on my own life, my own “We don’t get engaged and then get married. career and school before I focused on any aspect When a person gets engaged, it’s as if they are of my personal life. But once I met Joshua, married. So the guy goes to the girl’s family that all changed.” and asks for her hand in marriage. If the famMore of Saeed’s mature nature is revealed ily approves, it’s as if you are already married, as she talks about her concerns regarding and the actual ceremony will just take place marital life. at a later date. Our ceremony was originally “I’m not stupid,” Saeed said. “I know planned for sometime this summer, but a that this is going to be difficult and that we lot of my friends wouldn’t be able to attend are going to encounter a few rough patches, because of college visits, orientation and atbut my main concern has nothing to do with tendances, and so we’re thinking of moving the our relationship. We’re solid in that area. I’m date to sometime during Winter Break so everymostly worried about the financial aspect of one will be available to come. I actually had no this. He’s in college and I’m about to be idea that Joshua was going to propose. Marriage going to college as well. We have to worry was always something we discussed, I just wasn’t about paying for tuition fees, the apartexpecting it so early. But I’m happy and in love ment, food and supplies. That definitely and nothing else matters.” worries me a little, but both of us are michelle chu responsible, working adults, and we’re feature editor very independent so I have faith that we can do it.” courtesy of iqbal saeed The naysayers that discourage Saeed’s page 11 outlook feature May 25, 2011

iqbal saeed, 12

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When love knocks on the door you just have to answer.

Heart and Soles club lends a helping hand...and foot

H

Michelle Oh and Isabel Yun, seniors, decorate and donate shoes to underprivileged communities eart and Soles, created by Michelle Oh and Isabel shoes – a pair of bedazzled flip flops – over to Senegal at the end Yun, seniors, in June of last year, is a club which gives of last year.

Oakton’s art community the op“Designing and shipping the shoes is a portunity to give back. With the help of really lengthy process,” Oh said. “Each teacher sponsor Madame Pisano and forpair of shoes has its own individual mer exchange teacher from Senegal Mondesign. It takes a while to draw them on signor Jobe, Oh and Yun have discovered perfectly and even longer for them to a way to put their artistic talents to good actually get to Africa.” use by decorating and donating shoes for Despite the difficulty surrounding the underprivileged African communities. creation and transportation of the shoes, Oh was initially inspired to form Heart Oh and Yun are equally excited about and Soles by a documentary she watched their club’s future. about these underprivileged communities.

“After we sent the first round of shoes, “The people [in the documentary] had to I got an e-mail from Monsignor Jobe with walk miles and miles without shoes on pictures of the kids in shoes thanking me just to get water,” Oh said. “They zoomed for the donations,” Oh said. “It motivated in on their feet, and they were so worn me to continue with the club.” out.”

What makes Heart and Soles stand out After seeing this film, Oh brought her from other philanthropic organizations is idea to decorate shoes to Yun. also what Oh and Yun are most proud of. michelle oh “I was really excited when Michelle “I love this club because it’s so unique,” came to me with the idea,” Yun said. “We From Keds to flip-flops, “we customize all Yun said. “Heart and Soles is a different different kinds of shoes,” Oh said. “Our collaborated a little bit and then started kind of club that makes a difference.” recipients really appreciate them.” This pair working with Pisano and Jobe.” morgan harwood The club sent their first pair of custom of sandals was sent to a child in Senegal. staff member

Going the extra mile: the unpaved road to college

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“Growing up in a Latino family, it was a question of whether I was going to college or not,” Romero said. “My parents didn’t go to college because they’re from El Salvador, and there was a war going on in their country so they didn’t really have the

tion for everyone but extra help is given to those that ask, although, some students are not willing to share their stories.”

Although Romero may have more difficulty in his college application process, with the opportunities available to him, he is able to have the same college experience as his fellow students.

“College is important because Growing up in a Latino family, it sets your future,” said Romero. it was a question of whether I “But it’s harder for me because it’s was going to college or not. my family’s first time [going through this process]. I have to do everynestor romero, 12 thing by myself, but my counselor opportunity to. Then they moved to the has been very helpful.”

U.S., and everything became about workAlthough he is faced with challenges, ing. My parents think I’m just trying to get Romero remains positive about the outout of the house, but they support me.” come of his dedication to higher educaWith the aid of his supportive family tion. and counselor, Naa-Adjeley Wilson, he “I’d rather be stuck doing a job I love applied for several scholarships and joined that doesn’t pay well than to be rich and the College Partnership Program. unhappy,” Romero said. “I don’t need “Sometimes it’s hard to determine to be rich; I chloe pierce whether a student is first generation,” Wil- just want to be melanie aguilar staff members son said. “We provide the same informahappy.”

“

W

hile preparing for college, most students look up to their parents or older siblings,who have already been through the experience,for guidance. Nestor Romero, senior, doesn’t have that opportunity. The El SalvadorianAmerican is getting ready to attend VCU this coming fall and plans to major in the medical field as a first generation college student.

“Being a first generation college student has made me want to work harder because I always wanted to have the opportunity to go to college,” Romero said. “I’m trying to set a good example for my younger siblings. I think they’ll both go to college too. I grew up by myself. My mom has just started getting involved in [my academic life].”

For Romero, culture has impacted his perspective on education. While he realizes the differences in his circumstances and those of his parents, he strives to set new goals for himself. page 12 outlook feature may 25, 2011

opinions

page 13, may 25, 2011

Being on the pill requires responsibility

dorothy yen

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he pill. We’ve all heard stories about the pill and talked which includes spotting between periods, bloating and moodiness. about it. Some of us may be on it ourselves, or at least The pill serves its purpose as far as pregnancy prevention and know someone who is on it. When discussed in health is therefore extremely popular among sexually active teenagers. class, it is presented just like any other form of birth control.

Conversely, there are some negative side effects regarding personal However, the pill is a significant lifestyle change with serious side health that have added to the controversy over whether birth effects, both positive and negative, for those who choose to take control pills are appropriate for teens. Some birth control users it. The debate over whether the pill can be a healthy part of a experience increased risk of blood clots, depression, nausea and teen’s daily life has grown in past years, specifically due to stories excessive bleeding. If a teen has decided to become sexually that have come out about teens on the pill who active, then they must educate themselves about The Staff Editorial have experienced dropping grades, anxiety issues these risks so that she knows which side effects to is the official opinion look for in order to determine if she should stop and long-term health consequences. of the Outlook If a teenage girl is responsible enough to make taking the pill. the choice to become sexually active, one would Those who decide to take the pill also experience hope that she is responsible enough to choose to be on the pill. positive side effects, including lighter acne and decreased risk of Although the pill is not for everyone, it can be a healthy lifestyle ovarian cancer. Some people take the pill strictly for these reasons, choice and allow teenagers to stay sexually active without having but for those who take it for pregnancy prevention purposes, to worry about forgetting to use a condom or some other form of these are simply more positive effects of being on the pill. contraception. Its primary function is to prevent pregnancy.

Most sexually active teenagers don’t want to get pregnant.

Even though birth control pills just seem like another form of The pill offers a safe and healthy alternative to getting pregnant contraception, they should not be taken lightly. Most birth control while often providing other benefits. Teenagers who choose to pills need to be taken at the same time every day and therefore be sexually active will most likely have sex no matter what, but pose a serious commitment to those who choose to take them. the pill ensures that sexual intercourse will not result in a major, Someone who is on the pill must be ready to dedicate themselves unwanted consequence: pregnancy. This is a choice that teens to this schedule and deal with the effects of the first few months, should have the freedom to make.

FCPS’s new tardy policy Student evaluations of teachers may be countereffective give constructive insight

F

CPS will implement a new tardy policy in 2011, giving those who are usually late to school extra time to catch their breath. The new policy eliminates the rule that students with at least three unexcused tardies or absences receive an ‘F’ in that class. Before this change, the old policy left no wiggle room for teachers who didn’t mind students being a couple minutes late or for students who couldn’t help coming to school late.

I guess FCPS has finally realized how failing students for unexcused tardies is unfair and ineffective, but this leniency may be a little too merciful. This no-failing policy was already administered in other Virginia counties, and their consequences for unexcused tardies are far harsher. In Fauquier County, students with three unexcused tardies get a warning from the administrator, and ten or more tardies equals a mandatory parent conference, fifteen-day parking suspension and two Saturday school days or three days of suspension. The only consequence FCPS students will have is an afterschool detention.

Despite the lightened punishment, I don’t know if this relatively lenient policy is supposed to change anything. Will students be more careless about timing, more efficient or the same? I don’t think people will take punctuality any more seriously than they do now. Those who have already failed a class will see this change as an opportunity to get away with being tardy with less menacing repercussions, and those who were intimidated by the previous policy might now feel comfortable crossing the line. If the point of this new policy is to prevent students from being tardy or to reduce the number of students failing a class due to unexcused tardies, then FCPS should reconsider the fact that this new strategy yields no real benefit to anyone except students who will exploit this leniency.

christina lee

christina lee staff writer

page 14 outlook opinions may 25, 2011

A

ccountability. It’s a word chris that gets tossed around papas like trash on the highway news editor during rush hour a lot these days when talking about the American educational system, and it’s not hard to see why. Students are held accountable every minute of the day. Students are graded by their teachers, judged by their parents, tested by the state, all in the name of holding students accountable for what they do and learn. That is to be expected; at this stage in life, teenagers need benchmarks and goals to meet to prove themselves.

Accountability, however, is not a one way street.

Today, teachers are officially evaluated by school representatives, but there is only one group of people who observes them on a daily basis and can speak in a truly informed manner about the impact a teacher has: students. So why not have them evaluate teachers? Students are clearly knowledgeable about the educational system, living with it for 180 days of the year, and they have the fullest understanding of who a teacher is as someone who guides a class in learning.

Student evaluations should focus on what a teacher does, holding them responsible for how they affect a pupil. Did you gain anything from the teacher’s assignments? Would you feel prepared to go on to a higher level in the subject? Most importantly, what did they teach you?

Obviously, some teachers would be wary of this system, a new way that they could face criticism. Some students are constantly at loggerheads with teachers. Others never click with a certain style of teaching. Still others might just lack the maturity to properly complete an evaluation. Having these students evaluate teachers could result in bad reviews (though, generally, that would be the point of any review system).

The lack of faith in students, while occasionally justified, is disheartening as the good should outweigh the negative. So start the system toothlessly. Give the evaluations to students at the end of the year when they can sit back and objectively ask themselves, “What did this teacher give me?” then pass it along to the school and allow teachers to see it so that he or she can improve. This doesn’t have to be a tool to punish.

The discussion on the educational system in America today is not a happy one. Students are over-stressed, under-performing and just not meeting everyone’s expectations, yet no matter what’s done to try to fix the inherent problems of the academic culture, nothing seems to work. People are waiting for the elusive superman, whose superpower seems to be invisibility at the moment.

Sometimes the solution isn’t a superhero. In the educational system, the answer to the students’ problems is the students themselves. Students are the ones experiencing the problems; allow them to provide the answers.

P

Prom expenses should not fall on the shoulders of the guy

rom is the one night where girls can put on their “Sunday best” to traipse around town like princesses while guys empty their wallets in order to pay for the tickets, the meals, the transportation and that cute little corsage which in two weeks will be discarded somewhere in a waste bin with nothing left to show for itself. For so long the question as to who should finance this event has gone unasked, falling regularly on the shoulders of the gentleman to pick up the slack. Is this right? I don’t think so.

Chivalry is dead, and if it’s not, it should be. The age of going out of one’s way to open the door or pull out a chair for a lady is over. We aren’t exactly dandelions and most definitely will not blow away in the wind. In fact, the average life expectancy for females in the United States is about five years longer than that of males, so I think guys might have their own problems to worry about.

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The society we live in is built on that of equal partnership between men and women which should apply to everything, whether it be going dutch for dinner, or in this case, Prom. Let’s be fair here ladies, tuxes aren’t exactly cheap and chances are good you’ll get a lot more enjoyment out of the actual dance than your counterpart.

It seems unrealistic to expect that he’ll genuinely want to spring that extra 70 dollars for your ticket just so you can make silly faces at your friends in way-too-close contact on the dance floor.

Once the night comes, if that manly pride we know they are all so sensitive

bobby smarelli

lisa baumgartner a&e editor

about is a little hurt, then he can buy dinner, but only if he insists. Let him “wine and dine” you a little bit; besides, we all know the part he is really looking forward to is the after party, which doesn’t cost him a penny.

4.Oakton is a waste of time for students and teachers

s the school year comes to a close, students are laden with SOLs and final exams. Many long and stressful hours are dedicated to studying in hopes that our exam scores will reflect the hard work we have all put in throughout the year. Once our finals are over, though, long days and late night cramming are long gone and most of us look forward to a fun and relaxing last few weeks of school.

Last year, however, Oakton High School decided to implement a three-day program at the end of the school year, “2.Oakton,” in order to better prepare us for the upcoming school year.

Each day of the program, students were required to attend three sessions that would supposedly help us plan for the next school year. Although administrators gave us the opportunity to choose some of our sessions, it seemed as if many of us were

assigned sessions that had nothing to do with us or our plans for the upcoming school year. The few sessions that were related to our classes for next year were pointless as we were forced to sit through the same exact thing that we were going to see on the first day of school.

Some of the sessions, such as “Suggesting Change at Oakton,” seemed to be space fillers in the program. As far as I can tell, Oakton has not executed any of the plans of action that were suggested at last year’s session. At the same time, the students involved in the session weren’t providing many suggestions, as most of them were texting or talking to their friends rather than actively participating.

Once again, students were forced to waste their time rather than do something productive or just enjoy summer.

This year, our school is trying a new

kim gibbons staff writer

and improved version of the program: 4.Oakton. This program is drawn out over four days and has more sessions than last year. 2.Oakton was awful enough, but now we are required to throw away even more of our time when we could be doing something of value, such as working on summer assignments or relaxing after a long school year.

The reality is, 2.Oakton had little, if any, benefit for students and 4.Oakton will likely be the same. Although Oakton means well, neither the teachers nor the students want to be here. Requiring them to participate in this program will only make their last few days before summer miserable. If Oakton wants this program to be a success, it needs to do some serious reforming before it decides to waste our last few days of school. page 15 outlook opinions may 25, 2011

indepth

page 16, may 25, 2011

HE SAID,SHE SAID

Girls and boys share their opinions on teen sex and its consequences.

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uring their high school experience, many teenagers end up making serious

decisions in their relationships.

Students should be informed about the consequences of their

Who’s responsible if she gets pregnant?

Well, honestly, for the most part the girl really is responsible for the situation, because ultimately she is going to make all the decisions about whether to keep the baby or not. More often than not, it is the girl lying about being on the pill and just not being careful. Guys really aren’t stupid enough to not use protection, but even that sometimes fails.

Teen pregancy sucks. Every girl thinks it would never happen to her, but it can honestly happen to anyone who is having sex. People should just be careful, and if someone gets pregnant, both the boy and girl need to deal with the consequences.

“

actions and what options are available to them when considering having sex.

It’s both of the people’s responsibility. I mean, it takes two people to have sex and two people to decide not to use a condom, so why would the guy just get to skimp out on the situation? He should pay for the abortion or be supportive, whichever one they choose. And yeah, if the condom breaks or whatever other excuse you want to use, the guy still has a responsibility, and he has to face his actions. If he doesn’t, then he’s immature and shouldn’t be having sex in the first place. Grow a pair if you can’t man up.

It is a shared responsibility between the two people; because they both made a decision together, and they need to both face the consequences.

a girl finds out she is pregnant, both she and the father of her child are responsible for THE FACTS Ifmaking some difficult decisions. Teen parents have the choice to abort their child or give it up for adoption, both of which may cause emotional distress. Some teens decide to keep their baby, which in some instances leads to poverty or poor preformance in school. (www.4parents.gov)

The number one rule right here is always be as safe as possible when having sex. When it comes down to it, there is no 100 percent contraceptive. The more safety that people use the better because I don’t believe anyone in high school is actively trying to get on “16 and Pregnant” or “Teen Mom.”

I’m sorry, but the pill f***ing sucks. I was on the pill from age 13 to 16, and it really messed up my body. I know that it’s something that I should probably be taking, but I refuse.

I’ve had more negative side effects than any positive, so I don’t use it or see it as being better. I don’t really care about condoms. I honestly think I’ve used condoms like five times, but I’m getting better at using them because that nervous wait for your next period is not worth it.

The pill doesn’t always work because sometimes when people use antibiotics and the pill together, they can still get pregnant. It’s important to know everything about it before you use it.

Using both condoms and the pill wouldn’t hurt. Using just the pill wouldn’t protect you from STDs if you don’t know the person as well, but condoms are no guarantee either. It’s better to just use both.

Which contraceptives work best?

“

a girl is on the pill, she should remember to take it every day, even if she isn’t having sex.

THE FACTS IfSometimes the pill loses its effectiveness if a girl smokes or is taking antibiotics. It is also important to know that condoms are the only contraceptives that reduce the risk of spreading STDs, so they should always be used in accordance with the pill. (www.kidshealth.org)

In the two sexual relationships that I’ve been in, I have had the guy buy the condoms because they’re kind of expensive. We just tried to get them whenever one of us had 20 bucks. When I first bought condoms, I actually just gave the money to my friend because I was really embarrassed. But now I buy them myself because I just think, ‘well, at least they know I’m being safe.’ I still get embarrassed sometimes though because I get funny looks, but in the long run I don’t care because hey, I am getting laid and I’m being safe.

“

I think girls are responsible for getting birth control. The guy is repsonsible for getting the condoms. Basically, people should get what affects them.

to be responsible for buying them. (kidshealth.org)

It’s dumb to think of it like a clock counting down in a relationship, and when the alarm goes off you hop into bed.

Two people should be in a relationship long enough that they trust each other. They should be able to have a strong bond outside of the bedroom as well.

A long time. It’s hard to trust someone, and that’s basically all boys want. You might as well make the relationship last.

I know a couple that hasn’t had sex in the two and a half years that they’ve been together, and I know a couple that gave it up within a week. Sex and virginity doesn’t always have to be romantic or be a spiritual moment between two people. I just feel like there is way too much hype around it sometimes. It just depends on your trust level with the person and if you’re mentally ready to handle the attachment that, for most people, comes with it.

Some couples won’t do anything at all, but it really depends on the individuals in the relationship. If I had to assume a standard, I would have to say like 3 to 4 months.

should have sex when both partners are physically and emotionally ready to take that THE FACTS Couples next step. Some teens decide to abstain from sex or wait until marriage. The decision to have sex is a personal one and should never be influenced by peer pressure. (www.avert.org)

I’ve never really had the “sex talk” or necessarily asked my parents for advice on sex, but when the topic has formed its way into a conversation somehow, my parents merely tell me to be responsible and to never get stuck in a situation where I feel uncomfortable. I’m really close with my parents so I find it important to talk about things like this with them in general, because a lot of times it can place things into perspective and make you realize you don’t need to have sex just because your friends do, or because you may feel pressure from others. It’s nice to have a support system you can always rely on, and you know that they will never judge you.

“

Typically, it is the guy who goes to get [condoms] from a store, because it’s kind of embarrassing for girls to do. So I would have to say the guy is more responsible for that.

are available in most supermarkets and drugstores, so it is easy to acquire protection THE FACTS Condoms when it is needed. Contraceptives are available for both sexes and, ideally, both partners have

How long should a couple wait to have sex?

“

Who should buy the contraceptives?

Have you had the ‘talk’?

No, I haven’t ever really had that awkward of a talk with my parents. They will throw out the occasional comment about how stupid it is to have sex before marriage because of unplanned pregnancies and STDs, etc. but other than that they usually stay away from my love life. I personally have never asked for advice on sex, I feel like that would be way too awkward of a talk. I think kids and parents should have a general talk about sex just to be safe, but personally I think we learn enough about those consequences from health class, the internet, radio- and of course “16 and Pregnant.”

shows that teens who talk to their parents are less likely to get pregnant and more likely THE FACTS Research to use protection. Even though it may be uncomfortable to discuss, parents are older and more knowledgeable about sex issues and can provide useful advice for teens. (www.seventeen.com)

kate zhukova staff writer page 17 outlook indepth may 25, 2011

Sex on the Small Screen Students give their take on whether pornography - in any medium - is a natural part of adolescence or a shameful secret

Boys Girls

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orn, for better or worse, has become an entrenched part of our society, yet opinions about this sex-driven medium have remained quite polarized. Chris*, a self proclaimed porn lover, is quick to argue in favor of these explicit films and represent his side of this ruptured debate.

“I don’t really see anything wrong with [porn],” Chris said.

“The people that act in these films are doing it because they want to.” Chris is eager to point out how overstated the immorality of porn is. “It’s not like somebody is getting killed. It’s just sex. Sex happens all the time. For people to look at it and say ‘oh that’s wrong’ is just hypocritical.”

On the other end of the spectrum though is Joe*, who tends to avoid porn. “I was raised in a very strict household, and my dad explicitly told me that if he ever found out that I had been watching porn, he’d take away every privilege I had,” Joe said.

“As I’ve grown up, it’s just never been something I’ve felt the need to do.” Joe’s aversion to porn though is entirely personal.

“It’s really not something I feel too strongly about; people should have the freedom to do what they want. I guess it’s kind of degrading to women, but not to the point that people shouldn’t watch it, [but] people should realize that the real thing is way better.”

One common ground between two sides of the argument though is the idea of sex as a release, whether it is porn or the real deal. “I’d rather have people watching and making porn as a way to relieve stress than running allen luethke around killing each other,” Chris said. indepth co-editor “It really is a healthy outlet.”

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or the most part, pornography is considered a man’s world.

Can anyone name any women’s pornographic magazines that could rival Playboy or Hustler? Societal norms dictate that women are ladylike and chaste, and many girls do in fact fit that mold.

“I don’t watch it; that’s never really appealed to me,” Susan* said. “I wouldn’t judge a girl who did, just it’s not for me.” When asked how she would feel about her boyfriend watching porn, Susan wrinkled her nose in disgust. “I don’t even know if he does. He probably does; I don’t really want to know.”

Jennifer* on the other hand was recently involved in a relationship in which she and her boyfriend were very open about their interest in pornography. “We would exchange sites,” Jennifer said.

“He didn’t think it was weird; he thought it was healthy.”

While some would say that pornography encourages promiscuity, even the girls who do watch porn would disagree. “I’m still pretty set in my morals,” Jennifer said, insisting that she still has no intention to have sexual intercourse in the near future.

“If anything, [porn] has made me appreciate real sex more. In porn there’s no love, it’s just people having sex,” said Karen*, who watched porn prior to her serious relationship. “When I watch it now it kind of grosses me out,” Karen said about the lack of love in porn.

One thing that all the girls agreed upon was that watching pornography was a much better option than promiscuity. “I think it’s better to watch porn than to go find becky singerman some random person to hook up indepth co-editor with,” Karen said.

Textual tensions: one student’s sexting story

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here was never a point where I wanted to send pictures, or receive them for that matter,” said Christina*.

Sexting refers to the distribution of sexually explicit pictures or videos via cell phone or other electronic device.

It is a phenomenon most associated with teenagers. Many members of our digital generation neglect the fact that such images of minors is legally child pornography.

“Before I was 18 I would just avoid sending pictures by telling the guys that it’s child pornography and I’m not down with that,” Christina said. “It’s a lot harder to say no now. [Sexting] doesn’t really get page 18 outlook indepth may 25, 2011

easier. Every time I send a picture, no matter how much I like or trust the person I’m sending it to, I still have this moment of panic before pressing send.”

Even without legal consequences, the personal consequences of sexting damper the appeal.

“You never know who might see it.

I have a friend who ended up on the internet. She called me, and we just kept reporting it to the site because she was a minor and a few days later it was taken down. Who knows how long it was up there before someone told her?” Christina said. “Pictures that aren’t on the internet get passed around too. Even if the file isn’t shared, people show each other that stuff.”

Boys aren’t the only party guilty of sharing sexts, and girls aren’t the only ones sending. Girls too can’t keep their phones closed, even with their fears of being seen.

“I’ve seen all the ‘dicktures’ that my friends have. They’ve seen mine,” Christina said.

Though her efforts are sometimes reciprocated, the payoff isn’t really the same.

“I only ask for them because I want collateral. I want to have some ammo.

What if they put me online?” Christina said. When asked if sexting was worth her anxiety, she said“Probably becky singerman indepth co-editor not.”

*All names in both stories have been changed to protect the anonymity of the sources.

From homework to

J

en was 14 the first time she had sex. She was 14 the night the condom broke. Jen was 14, and she was pregnant.

Fourteen meant she was pressured to get an abortion. Fourteen meant that choosing to keep her baby, rather than giving it up for adoption, was the most life-changing and difficult decision she ever made.

“I had never had sex before that night. I had no idea it would be such a big deal,” Jen said. “I just thought, ‘Oh, I’m in love. It’s just sex.’ But then it was so weird and scary, not during, but after, when we realized the condom broke.”

Jen would not let her boyfriend, Chris, touch her for several weeks following, and took multiple pregnancy tests. Every test proved positive, despite her desperation for different results.

“I cried for a whole week,” Jen said. “The most difficult thing was facing my parents. They’re very conservative and I knew I had been stupid. To every teenager thinking about or already having sex, pregnancy and STDs should be their primary concerns.”

Jen gave birth in September of her freshman year.

“That’s how I started high school. My parents were furious that I didn’t have an abortion, and that I wouldn’t give him up for adoption,” Jen said. “They tried to convince me that having a baby would kill me.

It did in fact alter my life completely, but it was simply a choice I had to make because I felt responsible.”

Jen points out that her choices are certainly no example to be emulated.

“For many girls, abortion or adoption may be the right choice,” Jen said. “What I did was what was [right] for me. It’s extremely personal.”

Jen will be attending the University of Phoenix next year, after taking a month off to spend with her toddler, Joshua. She and Chris have stayed together.

“Things often get rocky,” Jen said. “I don’t know if we would have been like this, or lasted at all, without Joshua. But I’m committed to [Chris], fully.”

Although she can’t change the past, Jen still has regrets about her actions.

“Things are different,” Jen said. “I love Joshua so much, but if I got to do my life over, I kirin gupta would pray to make better choices.” editor-in-chief

Contraception: Options to avert unwanted pregnancy Condoms: Condoms are the easiest form of contraceptives for teenagers to obtain and use, many of whom are not comfortable asking doctors or parents for permission to use the pill. With a 97 percent prevention rate, latex can provide relative security to teens who choose to have sex and don’t wish to ask others for assistance. Condoms are easy to use and available in most supermarkets and drugstores.

“The Pill”: The most common form

Spermicide/Diaphragms:

of contraception for women under 30, “the pill” refers to any form of hormonal supplement which must be taken daily - and at the same time every day - to control the function of the uterus and the ovaries. Most pills contain estrogen, progesterone or a combination of both. To receive the pill, a minor is expected to consult with an adult. Often, hormonal side effects will occur. Many girls are on the pill for reasons besides birth control if prescribed by their doctor.

Often perceived as outdated, spermicide and diaphragms are often combined. Spermicide, a cream inserted into the vagina, is available at clinics and some drugstores. A diaphragm, a dome placed over the cervix, can be purchased at a clinic following a medical examination in which a provider will ‘fit you’; they are generally $15 to $75 and can be used for up to two years. page 19 outlook indepth may 25, 2011

True Love Waits A high school senior shares his triumph over teenage hormones as he remains true to his belief in abstinance from all sexual acts.

STD QUICK FACTS Remember, the surest way to avoid transmission of STDs is to abstain from sexual contact or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected. chlamydia

W

hile most teenagers associate abstinence with sexual intercourse, Jack* feels the effects of abstinence in other areas of his life that lie beyond his physical relationships.

“To me sexual relations are not as much of ‘how far is too far?’ but instead ‘what does God expect from me and the relationship I am in?’”

Jack said. “The Bible makes it clear that sex, lust and all that stuff are out of the question. It’s hard to go far without going against God.” However, Jack acknowledges that it’s not always as straightforward as one would think.

“I grew up in a Christian home and have grown up in an environment where things like abstinence have been explained and expected,” Jack said.

“I really didn’t have much objection to what I was being taught. Of course, that was until I got into my first serious relationship. With hormones and love, temptation was rampant and that’s when I first began to question everything I had been taught.”

Confusion and temptation had stemmed not only from Jack’s personal relationships, but also from those he encountered in social settings.

“I mean I had heard my parents and pastors talk about the importance of a marriage before physical stuff,” Jack said, “but I also saw and heard the people and couples around me – sex just seemed to be normal.”

Jack’s faith refused to falter, however, and he turned to what he felt the closest bond with for guidance.

“Instead of listening to everyone around me and the confusion surrounding it, I turned to my faith — more specifically my Bible and prayer,” Jack said. “In doing this, I began to understand God’s purpose in making these ‘rules.’ Physical relationships should only come after the emotional and spiritual parts are fulfilled. Sex has the power to manipulate and destroy and therefore should not be passed out casually.”

Jack’s beliefs carry into his view on relationships, but he plans to allow compromise when approaching his future.

“I would certainly consider being with someone if they had already had sex,” Jack said. “But I do intend on marrying someone with the same kind of faith that I have. Their actions in the present are much more important than whatever mistakes they might have made in the past. Forgiveness is key.”

Overall, Jack believes that the wait is worth the relationship he has developed with God. “God has had a tremendous impact on my life through all He has done for me,” Jack said. “Having someone by my side through every challenge and joy is an [inexplicable] concept. Trusting God’s plan for me has worked out thus far and I trust that he knows the michelle lorusso best path for my life.”

staff writer

page 20 outlook indepth may 25, 2011

-- Most commonly reported STD in the United States -- Known as a “silent” disease because the majority of infected people have no signs -- Can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics -- The Center of Disease Control recommends yearly testing of all sexually active women age 25 or younger -- Men with signs or symptoms might have a discharge from their penis or a burning sensation when urinating -- Having multiple infections increases a woman’s risk of serious reproductive health complications, including infertility

gonorrhea

-- CDC estimates that more than 700,000 persons in the U.S. get new gonorrheal infections each year -- Can infect the reproductive tract, mouth, throat, eyes and anus - initial symptoms and signs in women include a painful or burning sensation when urinating, increased vaginal discharge or vaginal bleeding between periods -- Men’s symptoms and signs include a burning sensation when urinating, or a white, yellow or green discharge from the penis. Sometimes men with gonorrhea get painful or swollen testicles -- Can be successfully cured by antibiotics, however, drug-resistant strains of gonorrhea are increasing in many areas of the world, including the US, and successful treatment is becoming more difficult

syphilis

-- US, health officials reported over 36,000 cases of syphilis in 2006 -- signs include a firm, round, small and painless sore on the genitals, anus or mouth, or a rash on the body, especially on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet -- passed from person to person through direct contact with syphilis sores -- cannot be spread through contact with toilet seats, doorknobs, swimming pools, hot tubs, bathtubs, shared clothing or eating utensils -- penicillin will cure a person infected for less than a year, but additional doses are needed if one is infected for longer than a year

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sports

KICKOFF

page 22, may 25, 2011

Oakton athletes discuss their team’s District results

conner dick sports writer Girls Lacrosse

Boys Lacrosse

After a 7-7 regular season record, boys lacrosse won their first round game, and then advanced to the District Semifinals, where they lost to Robinson. “I think Districts were disappointing this year because we didn’t win the title,” said junior attack Sean Schweicker.

Softball

Led by four players with more than 20 goals apiece and an 8-5 record, girls lacrosse won all three District tournament games.

“It brought our team together a lot, and it gave us momentum towards the Regional tournament,” said junior attack Allison Turk.

Baseball

After a strong showing at the Hayfield Tournament and a solid regular season finish, softball advanced to the District Semis. “The team was getting anxious because the game kept getting cancelled, but we were excited to finally play Centreville because we knew we could beat them,” said junior catcher Amanda Krage.

An 11-4 start was the spark behind the baseball team as they played strongly at Districts. “I suspect every game to be a close one, but I think we have the right guys peaking at the right time and I feel confident in our team,” said senior captain Chris Hanson.

Boys Soccer

Girls Soccer

After back-to-back successful Districts, girls soccer completed the three-peat by winning Districts this year.

“We’re all really excited to finally get girls soccer a title up on the board, and we can’t wait to continue our success at Regionals,” said junior defender Adelle Clinton.

Winning five of their last six games led to a sweep of Districts for boys soccer, who outscored their opponents six to zero throughout the tournament. “We had a very successful Districts this year, and it is a great feeling to be a [District] champion once again,” said senior midfielder Charlie Ahn.

Tennis With an undefeated season for the girls and a slow start for the boys, Oakton tennis battled hard in Districts. “I think even though our top six didn’t pass the second round we fought our hardest against the more challenging opponents, and that’s what really matters,” said senior Andy Le.

Track and Field Oakton track and field continues its long streak of success from the past by winning Districts. “Winning the championship and being with my teammates made for an amazing and memorable night,” said senior Catherine Mahoney.

Crew Team Finds Success at States and Stotes

A

t states this year, one Philedelphia this past weekend, the boat did what few largest high school regatta in the world. others could accom “This is the first year the men’s first plish. On May 14 the women’s eight made the semi-finals at Stotes,” lightweight four finished first said men’s rower Ryan Mulreany, junior. place in states. The lightweight “That’s probably the biggest part of what four was the third boat out of we did.” over 40 Oakton boats to finish As usual the men’s first eight wasn’t first place in states. the only boat to advance this year.

The women’s lightweight “The women’s lightweight four also four wasn’t the only boat made it to semis. They finished fourth,” to open eyes at states; the said Mulreany. courtesy of the offical website men’s first eight was also very The team has gotten a lot of help from successful. their top boats this year, as they have The women’s lightweight four rowing at states. they “We got fifth in the finals, finished in first place, as only the third Oakton boat to definitely improved since last year. the best Oakton’s men’s first do so in Oakton crew history.

“The team’s best boats are the men’s eight has done,” said Michael first eight, and the girls first four and lightBecker, junior, one of Oakton’s top male rowers. “We were up weight first four,” said captain Catherine Manner, senior. “The against crews that are some of the best in the nation.” boys eight has advanced to the finals each race, the girls first four All seven of Oakton’s varsity boats competed in states this year has finished third or fourth every weekend, and the girls light(women’s lightweight four, first four, junior four and lightweight weight four has only lost one race.” eight; and the men’s first four, first eight and second eight), last Oakton crew as a whole has had one solid season, and has year Oakton had four boats advance to nationals, and this year’s done things other Oakton crew teams have never accomplished. crew matched that total.

“We’re doing better than last year, the girl’s boats are rowing “The men’s first eight, men’s second eight, women’s first four different events and doing better, including the freshmen.” and women’s lightweight four all advanced to states,” said men’s Manner said. “Overall, this year has been james craig sports writer coxswain Aarya Sawant, junior. one of the best so far.”

Oakton also competed in the Stotesbury Cup Regatta in

Girls Tennis Enjoys Perfection

Tennis team swept the Concorde District and secured the banner

G

irls Tennis has put together a remarkable campaign this year, going 10-0 in the regular season. The team also had four players honored on first team all district, as well as three doubles teams on second team all district.

“We have a very talented team,” said head coach Joshua Henry, “and we have girls who have played for a long time.”

Alexis Klein and Rachel Schwartz, seniors, were both honored on all district teams, and the “The season two combined for a stellar 18-3 was definitely record. “It was an awesome different because experience, honestly amazing,” I’m a senior. said Klein. “You can hold your When you’re a head high wearing Oakton senior you get tennis stuff.” to chill with the However, reaching perfecteam and just hang tion was not easy, as the out and enjoy your team had to deal with the time with the growing pressure that came team.” with each win. “You practice -Alexis Klein, Sr. every day a week, then you have two or three matches a week.

So it starts to get really isabella kidane

“We have six [seniors] leaving this year and most of them have been on the team since they were freshmen, and they’re key components for the team. Most of them play in the top six. It’s difficult to see them leave callum kelton but to have such a great sports writer season and cap it off with them is just the icing on the cake.”

-Alina Suyama, Jr. tiring and you just start to burn out,” said Alina Suyama, junior.

“When you think about that it gets really stressful, because you think well maybe I’ll get so tired one match I’ll just crash and burn.”

Despite the pressure and growing expectations for the team, the season was ultimately very successful; only once did the team win by less than four matches. “It’s just been a really fun season,” said Henry, “not just because of success but because of the group of girls.” page 23 outlook sports may 25, 2011

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Beach Body Madness

spencer conley christian forbes

staff writers

Beach week is just around the corner, and the time to get in shape is now

oupled with exercise, nutrition is an important part of achieving that ideal beach body. It is good to keep a balance of carbs, proteins, fiber and healthy fats to give the body what it needs. A well balanced diet can help you burn fat, build lean muscle and provide energy.

Many experts agree that without proper nutrition, workouts and exercise plans are less effective because the body begins to break down muscle tissue for energy. Keep in mind that after you feel you have achieved your beach body, keeping a balanced diet is still key to maintaining your perfect 10.

KICKBOXING The average person burns

around 350 to 500 calories in a standard kickboxing workout. It is also a great cardio vascular workout. Not only is it good for burning calories, but while exercising you also learn valuable self defense skills.

CHOBANI YOGURT FRUIT SMOOTHIE SOY OATMEAL LEAN STEAK GRILLED CHICKEN EGG WHITES VEGETABLES MILK/DAIRY BEANS NUTS FISH RAISIN BRAN

* * * * * * * * * *

*

FI B

ER

S RB

* * * *

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E N SSE UT N RI TIA EN L TS

Boys Workout Pictures: Official Websites, Girls Workout Pictures: Gianna Sheffield

CA

NUTRITION C

110 degrees. This exercise helps with muscular flexibility, endurance and relaxation. Although the majority of participants are women, this exercise is very challenging for both males and females. Sessions usually last roughly an hour and a half.

Despite a person’s strength and size they will find themselves working surprisingly hard.

IN

Insanity shows a great resemblance to P90X. However, it focuses more on cardio and fat burning. This is a great alternative to those whose main focus is weight loss and not muscle building.

Yoga takes place in a HOT YOGAroomHot that is anywhere from 95 to

PR O TE

INSANITY

P90X is a thorough workout program that focuses on all aspects of physical fitness, including cardio, muscular strength, muscular endurance and building lean muscle. The program uses muscle confusion to keep your muscles from adapting to the scheduled routines. It takes 90 days to complete the program. The downside to this program is that it requires 60 to 90 minutes a day.

DS

WORKOUTS

P90X

as you get a full spectrum of fruits, vegetables, meats and carbs. Another rumor to stay away from is the need to go heavy in weight while lifting. It’s better to go low at the start and work your way up, not only to prevent injury but also to provide a stable and muscled core. With summer on the horizon it’s important to start early, so follow these easy steps to get the perfect beach body.

GIRLS

O

BOYS

for error if your regiment is not planned well and followed the majority of the time.

While preparing for the start of summer, there are many misconceptions about how to get in great shape. The first and most dangerous rumor is the need to starve yourself to get “toned.” This is completely false and unhealthy. To get toned and lose weight fast all you need to do is eat healthy.

You can still eat the same amount as long

FO

T

he snow has melted and the flowers are blossoming. That can only mean one thing: beach week is only a few months away. Whether you go to OBX or Ocean City, this exciting trip is approaching quickly. When the time comes, you can either take your shirt off with pride or embarrassment. Hard work and a strict diet are the obvious solutions to a great body, but there is a large margin

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* * page 25 outlook sports may 25, 2011

Pop Culture Grid This Month’s Athletes Paul Rupp Faculty, ATC

Alex Weaver Jr. Soccer

Kyle Burger So. Baseball

Nyah Collier Sr. Track

Logan Cropper Jr. Soccer

OVERTIME

sports section

sports writers

Did you go to Prom?

How do you feel Ashton Kutcher about the Redskins’ or Charlie first draft pick, Ryan Sheen?

Kerrigan?

I avoid it like the plague

Who cares?

They’re both losers, neither one is winning

There were better picks, they should have drafted a QB, I think they’ll lose McNabb

The cost was ridiculous but it was worth it because we just won District

Ashton Kutcher, because he’s hotter

I hate the Redskins

I am a sophomore so I didn’t go

Ashton Kutcher, he’s hotter

I don’t like the Redskins, I like the Cowboys

No, I ran at District (editors note: girls track won District)

Charlie Sheen because he’s the original

I don’t know anything about football

I didn’t go to Prom for a whole hell of a lot of reasons

Charlie Sheen, Winning!

I don’t care about the Redskins

Inside the Grid

After trading their number 10 overall pick in the draft to Jacksonville for the number 16 and number 49 picks, the Washington Redskins selected defensive end Ryan Kerrigan. The Purdue senior became the Big Ten’s all time leader in forced fumbles last season.

On The Scoreboard

Baseball

Boys Soccer

Girls Tennis

Girls Lacrosse

5/10 v. Centreville L 7-9 5/13 v. Westfield W 8-2 5/20 v. Chantilly W 6-4

5/10 v. Herndon L 1-2 OT 5/19 v. Robinson W 3-0 5/20 v. Herndon W 3-0

4/26 v. Westfield W 8-1 4/27 v. Robinson W 5-1 4/28 v. Herndon W 9-0

5/12 v. Chantilly W 16-14 5/17 v. F.Church W 21-9 5/19 v. StnBridge W 17-12

Softball

Girls Soccer

Boys Tennis

Boys Lacrosse

5/13 v. Westfield L 1-14 5/19 v. Centreville W 9-0 5/20 District Semi L 2-7

5/16 v. Robinson W 1-0 5/18 District Semis W 1-0 5/20 v. Westfield W 1-0

4/26 v. Westfield L 3-6 4/27 v. Robinson L 0-9 4/28 v. Herndon L 3-6

5/9 v. Robinson L 6-14 5/17 v. Edison W 10-7 5/19 v. Langley L 7-11

page 26 outlook sports may 25, 2011

COUGAR CARIC A TURES the Oakton Outlook satire page

Oaktonmon

alex buscemi

Burgundy & Gold Version

Hipmonchan

satchel swing -3 markers +0.5 damage se vinyl record purcha -20 mainstream -beating political belief head +0 blog followers ses non-prescription glas +6 alternative style -8 vision

Cutesypuff

Brolax

lanyard whip

+25 annoy

golf cart powersl ide +15 agility hat confiscation +1 crisis averted car boot -20 mobility for op ponent

Keeper of the Cr yp dim and dripping co t: Guarding the Oakton on his flam rridors of Hutchzard preventsing, metallic mount, escaping their etern students from leaving to get McD al damnation, or onald’s.

whine +3 whatever she w ants risque snapshot +500 facebook fri ends gossip +35 emotional dam age

practice by gym lobby +0 impress girls -2 windows bro hug +4 bonding +5 sexual confusion magnetic studs +10 swag - 400 respect Distinguishable ch ar

Language: Communicate through Dane Cook quotes, elaborate handof t ck up, the res shakes and “she should’ve stayed in the Mantra: “I’m not stu progressive.” kitchen” jokes the school just isn’t as

Hutchzard

sports co-editor artwork by ashley cho

Comstockichu

acteristics: Vera Bradley wallet and fur booties, tend tobook bag, oversized especially when go travel in packs— ing to the bathroom

on Banberr y

stand over shoulder +20 awkwardness nhs dues

-20 dollars for opponent

senior dues opponent loses turn until fines paid Oaktondex entry: With enough experience points, your Comstockichu will evolve from vice principal into the mighty Banberryon.

last shotgun b ge ma +1,000 da troll hallway sidate +50 intim invisibility h +60 stealt

em all: to rule th l of all n o m n to k u One Oa and most powerf leaves The rarest n, Banberryon onlyrey on Oaktonmoes of his office to p been the confin Many students have ysterious the weak. d into his dark and m summone ne have returned. office…no

page 27 outlook satire april 29, 2011

a&e

page 28, may 25, 2011

An Outbreak of Festivus Viva Vienna In the heart of Northern Virginia lies Vienna, and at 10 am on May 28, the Vienna Town Greene turns electric. A three day festival from Saturday, May 28 to Monday, May 30, Viva!

Vienna will feature live performances from Rose Between Thorns, Pat Somners Rockshop and the Vienna Town Band. Also, vendors from the surrounding Vienna area will be raring to please customers with food and more all three days. There will be free parking at James Madison High School and a free shuttle to transport to and fro at the Vienna Metro.

Herndon Festival Featuring live entertainment, rides and a K-9 Fun Walk and Doggie Expo, Herndon Festival will be a fun event for the family to enjoy. Herndon Festival usually has a draw of about 80,000 residents, give or take various family members and friends that participate in the festival. The carnival portion of Herndon Festival requires a contribution of a minimum of $5 for tickets to ride, but all-you-can-ride wristbands are available for purchase on Thursday and Saturday for $15. Herndon Festival will feature numerous acts to perform across three stages. Ranging from children’s folk to The Family Stone, alternative soul to pianodriven rock and roll, the stage will not cease to please. Herndon Festival occurs June 2 to June 5 in the town of Herndon.

In the weeks ahead, there is much to do in NOVA. Area festivals such as Herndon, Reston, Celebrate Fairfax and Viva Vienna are great events for the community to come together and celebrate the coming of summer.

Reston Festival With an annual attendance of over 25,000 participants, Reston Festival is definitely the place to be under the hot summer sun. This year, Reston slides through the decades starting with the Swinging Sixties up through Today and Beyond. The festival will be separated into quadrants, with each area consisting of the respective theme. This two-day birthday bash features live music from Time Machine, a 10-piece variety band, as well as historical displays, street performers and local merchants displaying multifarious wares ranging from bagels to bangles.

The sparks will fly from 11 am, July 9 at Reston Town Center to 9 pm Sunday July 10.

Celebrate Fairfax On the other side of town lies Celebrate Fairfax, taking place at the Fairfax County Government Center from Friday, June 10 to Sunday, June 12. In relative terms of Northern Virginia events, this one is the bee’s knees. Complete with distinguished entertainment provided by Third Eye Blind, The Bangles and 80’s tribute band The Legwarmers. With some help from these glamtastic demigods of hair metal, Celebrate Fairfax looks to be the rocket that will blast Virginia off into the space of summer. Tickets can be purchased at the andy reed event, local shopping centers or online. staff writer

Passport DC: Around the World Embassy Tour

F

rom Australia to Iraq, Kazakhstan to Ukraine, over 30 just went along Massachusetts Ave to the ones with shorter lines. embassies each had its own open house on May 14 in We also went to Botswana, Argentina, Haiti, the Bahamas, Croatia, Washington, D.C. The public was invited to visit and Serbia, Mexico, Ghana and Thailand.” experience each country’s culture as well The event lasted from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. as participate in a brief Rosetta Stone trial Jones was there from 11 to the end with beforehand. her family.

The Around the World Embassy Tour “I had heard about it a week before and I has been the capstone event of Passport really wanted to see the different embasDC, a month-long cultural event, for four sies,” Jones said. “I was supposed to do years. And because Washington D.C. has something else earlier in the day but it got more embassies than any other place in canceled and my dad suggested that we the world, it’s only fitting that the event go into D.C. [for the day]. I forgot about takes place there. the event and didn’t [realize it was still Each participating embassy fully imgoing on] until we got there.” mersed the participant of the tour in the For a few days each year the embassies photo from official website open their doors and welcome the public country’s culture. Depending on the country, some embassies showcased their food In the Royal Thai Embassy, dancers showin, rather than requiring a passport for and dance while others primarily focused case the country’s rich culture by performing entrance. a traditional Thai dance. on music and art.

“I really liked just being able to go inside “I want to go specifically to [the Korean Embassy] because I was the embassies,” Jones said. “I loved just dorothy yen really interested in the culture,” said Keiona Jones, junior. “But we being able to go in freely.” opinions co-editor

Album Showdown: Adele ‘21’ VS. Amy Winehouse ‘Back To Black’ Round 1: Best first single Rolling In The Deep VS. Rehab Winner- Rolling In The Deep Round 2: Best ballad One and Only VS. Love Is A Losing Game Winner- Love Is A Losing Game

photo courtesy from official website

photo courtesy from official MySpace website

Round 3: Best vocal performance Set Fire To The Rain VS. Wake Up Alone Winner- Wake Up Alone Round 4: Best upbeat song Rumour Has It VS. Tears Dry On Their Own Winner- Tears Dry On Their Own Round 5: Ultimate Showdown!

Winner- Amy Winehouse.

Though both artists have very powerful voices that resonate with fans and critics alike, Amy Winehouse does a better job of identifying with her audience. With a soulful and compelling voice, her songs speak more to her fans’ musical inclinations. Adele’s voice is also passionate, but her songs are a varying mixture of the Pop and Country genres. With Winehouse’s Back To Black, it clearly classifies as R&B, which makes the album more convincing and consistent. Regardless, both artists are a refreshing taste of something new in appearance and song content, and both will hopefully have lengthy singing camille may careers. staff writer

The Kollection offers free downloads from up-and-coming artists

W

e are the generation of downloads. Whether it’s a new movie, podcast, or song, people will do anything to find the next big hit. We all know the feeling of racing to listen to that new Lupe Fiasco song before the girl next to you in algebra is jammin’ out.

For those who are interested in broadening their musical horizons and being introduced to rising talent, The Kollection is the website to visit. It offers free legal downloads from various genres of music, including HipHop, Indie, Rap, Electro, and Dubstep. Each song is introduced with a paragraph summarizing the artist’s background, and through the Sound Cloud program, one is able to preview the entire song. It takes less than 30 seconds to easily (and legally) download any tune.

The polished layout of the site makes it appealing and user friendly. The home page is seperated into several tabs of the different branches of the site, including “Dubstep,” “Electro,” “Indie,” and the original “Kollection.”

The founder and owner of The Kollection, Brian Lovin, updates a blog on the site reguralary concerning progress, changes, and opinions on the music industry in general.

For avid fans of this music sensation, The Kollection has an online store of reasonably priced merchandise, including stickers, hats, tank-tops, and t-shirts of various design. Lastly, and possibly most appealing to Oakton’s own up-and-coming artists, is a submition section of the site where anyone can submit their own tracks for consideration. The emma mankin Kollection is an accesible and rewarding website that should soon be in every student’s bookmarks. staff writer

INDIE

Anna Sun- Walk the Moon This song screams sunshine with its roll-down-the-windows feel, and upbeat melody.

RAP

Wings - Macklemore & Ryan Lewis This track is the definition of musical substance, as it contains poignant lyrics and an old-school tempo.

DUB-STEP

Guilt (Dallask Remix)- Nero

You’ll want to turn up the speakers and pump those fists when you hear the irresistable bass and electric feel to this song.

page 29 outlook a&e may 22, 2011

media mix

Taste Questing: The search for Northern VA’s....

Coming Soon

Best Smoothies

Tropical Smoothie: While it is a daily hot spot for many

students because of its proximity to the school and its fun atmosphere, Tropical Smoothie’s smoothies are actually not the best. While they may be satiating and tasty, they don’t give as wide a variety of flavors as other smoothie stores do. Also, the price for the quantity is almost ridiculous. The only real plus to Tropical Smoothie is that they serve a variety of simple snacking foods, such as a sandwich or a wrap. I believe that the convenience and the ambiance are the main factors that cause people to think it’s so good, but in all honesty, there are so many better places to go for a smoothie.

Ms Giordano

chemistry teacher Favorite Genre: Rock Favorite Artist: Beastie Boys Favorite Songs:

Robeks: Of all the smoothie places I have been to, I appreciated

1. “Paul Rever” - Beastie Boys

the variety and quality of Robek’s smoothies the most, the flavors being very unique. Along with using real fruit, they can add a “boost” to your smoothie, or maybe some ground up grass for those extra vitamins.

While some of the drinks may seem expensive, they are totally worth the price. Their main motto is healthy snacking, which they follow with their crazy smoothies and an assortment of healthy cookies and granola bars.

Overall, Robeks is an awesome place to go for a drink and a snack. Too bad it’s not closer to Oakton.

2. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” - The Beatles 3. “Paranoid Android” - Radiohead 4. “It Was a Good Day” - Ice Cube 5. “Dancing Days” - Led Zeppelin

Smoothie King: Smoothie King is a chain establishment which is

completely underrated. They are so underrated I was only able to find one in the Fairfax area. The smoothies are delicious, adequately priced and super exotic. They have a whole section dedicated to crazy flavors.

The only problem with this chain is its atmosphere. It’s definitely not as nice as Tropical Smoothie or Robeks, and the ambiance can contribute a lot to how much you enjoy your drink. Other than some bad color combos and ugly fonts on the decor, Smoothie King’s smoothies are one of the better ones out there.

book

Sleepwalk With Me and other painfully true stories

C

omedian Mike Birgbilia is a riot in his his new memoir “Sleep Walk With Me and other painfully true stories.” Birgbilia has compiled a collection of humiliating tales of childhood through his awkward climb to manhood. page 30 outlook a&e april 29, 2011

cole neuffer a&e co-editor

To give perspective on Birgbilia’s sense of humor, he begins the book with a witty dedication thanking his parents for their support and then asking them to please refrain from reading any chapters mentioning their names. This is appropriate, considering much of the humour in this book is derived from family anecdotes with his less-than-warm-and-fuzzy neurologist father, apathetic soccer-mom, and three other fun-loving siblings.

Through Birgbilia’s use of hilarious self-deprication and relatable dialogue, his undeniable charm seeps through the pages. Although sometimes the story-line of, “awkward kid get’s made fun of,” does get repetitive, you can’t help but giggle at his neverending antics. This laugh-out-loud book is the perfect light, summer read as you head off on a plane, to thebeach or at your local pool for some fun in the sun.

emma mankin staff writer

Cars 2

Avid fans of the legendary X-Men will be delighted as the prequel fifth installment of the series is released this summer.

Emma Roberts and Freddie Highmore star in this romantic comedy about the trials and tribulations of everyday teenage life.

Your favorite automobiles are back in action in this sequal as Lightning McQueen and Mater take on the streets of Tokyo.

June 24

The Art of Getting By

June 17

June 3

X-Men: First Class

tv The Voice

“Twhich prehe Voice,”

miered April 26 on NBC, joined the jungle of singing and talent competitions on primetime TV. Hosted by Carson Daly, the hyped show brought in the highest viewer ratings of the night, surpassing even “Glee.” While its judging panel and style bear similarities to “American Idol” and “America’s Got Talent,” the aspect of the blind audition is a refreshing introduc-

movie

tion to the genre. Also, the fact that the judges are well-known and current adds to the show’s appeal.

The judging panel, or “coaching panel,” consists of Adam Levine, Maroon 5’s lead singer, Christina Aguilera, pop superstar, Blake Shelton, country artist, and Cee Lo Green, singer and producer. Not only does the panel judge potential contestants, but they also pick the contestants they want to work with and mentor them for the upcoming live voting competition.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

“PStranger Tides,” is a great

irates of the Caribbean: On

movie as long as you like Jack Sparrow being exactly the way he is, because he doesn’t change.

The flaw throughout this movie is, even though Sparrow is faced with crises after crises, and dilemma after dilemma, he gets out of all of them in the exact same manner, through sword fighting, wit or some theatrical escape, all of which look amazingly similar in nature. This leads to the movie being extremely predictable and mildly redundant. Once you see the opening swordfight, you’ve pretty much seen them all. This leads the movie to drag on at certain points, making it feel like the movie could have been easily compressed from the almost 150 minutes to about 90 minutes. The movie also isn’t so much of a sequal as it is a seperate movie. It doesn’t build off of the previous movies at all, meaning it is not at all necessary to see the previous movies to follow this one.

All of this being said, the movie isn’t bad and the acting is commendable. The special effects show evidence of the movie’s large budget and the ever clever Sparrow is still amusing.

tim collins staff writer

movie

The audition process has already stood out in the world of entertainment. In an industry that has a reputation of being shallow, “The Voice” offers opportunities to singers that are often overlooked by prominent music labels. Hopefully, “The Voice” will reinvigorate the recent drought of standout contestants on reality TV by introducing contestants with both talent and star power.

marilyn yang staff writer

Thor

T

hor may be the God of Thunder, but he’s also one of the most overlooked superheroes of all time. With Spiderman and Captain America leading the Marvel march and with other members of the Avengers being big, green and terrifying, Thor is easily dismissed as a background character. So when Marvel Studios announced the movie “Thor,” fans of the Nordic-like hero rejoiced.

The movie, however, was a bit of a disappointment. It was clear that special effects took precedent over plot, character development and acting prowess. The fight scenes were good— the tender moments between Thor and leading lady Jane (Natalie Portman) were not so much. The way the plot was laid out also made one start to root more for Thor’s brother and the film’s main villain Loki than the God of Thunder. Many scenes were also much more humorous than they were probably meant to be, leaving the serious fight scenes and sweet love moments lacking the solemnity they required to work.

To see it once is tolerable. The 3-D is very quality and the fight scenes are very intense. But one leaves the theater wondering if the Mighty Thor is really as mighty as he once seemed.

nikki clemons opinion editor page 31 outlook a&e april 29, 2011